Australian Slang N to R

Though the official language of Australia is English, Australian are equally notorious for their use of slang. While some, like "gidday" and "fair dinkum," are fairly well-known outside of Australia, many tourists struggle to understand what is being said. And it's especially important to understand what is being asked of you when your newfound friend at the local pub tells you it's your turn to "shout."

Australian slang, like all slang, is constantly evolving and changing. While the list below includes a lot of common slang, it is by no means complete.

pommy - Someone from the British Isles. There are a number of explanations but the most common are: Pomegrante for the ruddy cheeks of British immigrants; the acronym P.O.M.E. stamped on early convicts' clothing, which stood for Prisoner of Mother England. Also, a pommy bastard is someone from Pommyland or Pomgolia - Great Britain.

possie - a position or spot. "There's a good parking possie."

postie - Mail man or woman. Most posties in Australia ride motor cycles and have flags on the back so people can see them.

P-plate - newly licensed drivers in Australia have to display a (Provisional) P-plate for one year and are known as P-platers.